Prior to joining Morrisons in 2023, Baitiéh spent 28 years with the Carrefour Group across a number of disciplines, with roles in merchandising, supply chain and IT. As well as serving as CEO of Carrefour France and Carrefour Spain, he also spent time as executive director of the group’s Argentina and Taiwan divisions.
Commenting on his appointment, Baitiéh said: “Morrisons is a proud partner of GroceryAid and I have seen first-hand the difference that it makes. It is a privilege to now have an even closer relationship with the charity and to be able to work with the brilliant team to further build on the support offered.”
Kieran Hemsworth, CEO of GroceryAid, said Baitiéh was joining at a pivotal time for the charity in which it was facing a myriad of challenges – not least the cost-of-living-crisis – that had put a huge increase in demand for its services.
Amplifying GroceryAid’s Impact
“Rami’s in-depth knowledge of the grocery industry and visionary leadership will help us to amplify the impact that GroceryAid makes to the lives of grocery workers,” said Hemsworth.
“He has an intense focus on meeting the needs of his shoppers and a clear understanding of the importance of his store colleagues, and we are looking forward to tapping into this to drive higher levels of awareness for our services among front-line colleagues in the grocery sector.
“We’ll also benefit from Rami’s strong industry relationships which will enable us raise more funds and in turn increase the amount we spend on welfare to help more of our colleagues in need.”
Baitiéh takes over the role from Allan Leighton, who joined the charity in 2022. Leighton recently made headlines after returning to Asda – a company he successfully turned around more than 20 years ago as chief executive – as executive chairman.
‘Commitment and passion’
GroceryAid thanked Leighton for his service and ‘unwavering commitment and passion’ for the charity’s mission and were especially grateful that he agreed to extend his tenure for an additional year.
“Allan’s dedication has left a lasting impact on GroceryAid, and we are thankful for his contributions,” the charity added. “As we welcome Rami as our new President, we remain committed to building on the strong foundation Allan has helped create.”
From April 2023 to March 2024, the charity provided £6m of support to grocery workers and assisted with more than 78,000 incidents of support, up 93% year-on-year, according to its last Impact Report.
Grocery Aid’s free and confidential helpline is available 24/7 to all grocery colleagues and their spouse/partner and dependents over 18. For immediate emotional support, call 08088 021 122 or visit the GroceryAid website for more information.
Meanwhile, discount retailer Aldi is to donate more than 100 fridges to charities and foodbanks to help improve food security for the less privileged this winter.
